Volkswagen’s Kariega plant in South Africa has become the exclusive global production hub for the VW Polo, following the cessation of hatchback production in Pamplona, Spain, in 2024. This Eastern Cape facility now manufactures all Polo variants, including the GTI, for both right- and left-hand-drive markets. In addition to the Polo, the plant produces the Polo Vivo for the local market. A four-week shutdown from April 14 to May 12, 2025, is underway to upgrade production lines in preparation for a new model, part of a R4 billion investment to enhance the factory’s capabilities.